Neesha Khan_The Dusk Warrior_Oil_30”x40”_2022_© Neesha Khan
This passionate horse was initially painted keeping my own names translation and characteristic in mind. My name ‘Neesha’ is the derivative version of the Indian name ‘Nisha’ in Sanskrit. It means ‘dusk’ or the time of the evening just before darkness sets in. One translation that resonates with this painting is described in Hindu Numerology, the Life Pursuits linked with this name means, ‘You are strong by muscles and intentions. You are willing to survive against many oppositions’. This is how I am feeling recently with so many clashes and collisions in my life this description suits who I am today and the image of this powerful horse showing muscle tones, lit up in light and shadows. My Muslim surname ‘Khan’ is well-known and synonymous to Pathans. Historically, the name dates to the medieval world of nomadic tribes used by Turks, Persians and Pashtun people to refer to their sovereign and military ruler. It was the title for royalty, great warriors and tribal leaders. The famous powerful Khan being Genghis Khan (1162-1227 C.E) the founder of the Mongol Empire and is widely recognised as one of the most successful military leaders of the world. In 1206 CE, when the Mongol Dynasty was founded, this warrior was elected by the Mongol council of tribesmen, as their leader with the title ‘Genghis Khan’ conferred to him at the age of 44 years old. Coincidently, I am the same age during the creation of this painting obviously with no similarities to the brutal, destructive leader except this well-known surname.
My painting of this grey Andalusian horse depicts a translation of my name and surname, some of its meaning represents my character during this time in my life. Another meaning of Khan that is befitting to this painting can be described as, ‘Your name is your destiny, heart’s desire and personality. Khan is a name that evokes logical reasoning. You are possibly intelligent, intuitive, graceful, and even a psychic. Interest in spirituality and mysticism is a strong possibility in the quest for truth’.
I was putting the final touches to this painting with the title in already in mind and my reason to paint this horse, when the world mourned for the loss of Our HRH Queen Elizabeth II. I thereby, dedicate this painting to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.